Two talented students from the U.S. Virgin Islands have garnered regional acclaim after excelling in the 2024 Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Essay Contest.

Rachel Guzman Ramirez and Tyler Ian Antonio Chung were named winners in this prestigious annual competition, which encourages Caribbean youth to engage with themes of sustainable cruise tourism and their country’s role in its development.

The Department of Tourism announced that Rachel Guzman Ramirez achieved first place in the Senior Division, while Tyler Ian Antonio Chung secured second place in the Junior Division. Both students will be honored for their outstanding achievements during an awards ceremony scheduled for Tuesday, November 19. The event will take place at Lockhart K-8 School in St. Thomas from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

The awards ceremony, hosted by DOT in partnership with the Department of Education and Lockhart Elementary leadership, will feature several prominent guests, including Governor Albert Bryan Jr., Tourism Commissioner Joseph Boschulte, Deputy Commissioner RoseAnn Farrington, and representatives from the cruise industry. Notable attendees include Michele Paige and Adam Ceserano of the FCCA, Wendy McDonald from Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, and Carlos Estrada of Carnival Cruise.

“It is with great pride that we celebrate the educational excellence and prowess of our local youth, and the continued partnership from throughout the tourism industry that presents unique and indelible opportunities for the entire U.S. Virgin Islands,” said Mr. Boschulte.

The FCCA Essay Contest is an annual initiative aimed at inspiring primary and secondary students across the Caribbean to think critically about the role of sustainable cruise tourism in their communities. By participating in this competition, students not only showcase their writing skills but also contribute meaningful ideas to the discourse on sustainability in the region’s vital tourism sector.

Rachel and Tyler’s achievements highlight the potential of Virgin Islands youth to excel on a regional stage and bring positive recognition to their home territory.

For more information about tourism in the U.S. Virgin Islands, visit VisitUSVI.com.